Haloferax volcanii

In this infographic we present the main tools available for the halophilic archaeon Haloferax volcanii, which have enabled successful research on its biology, including its genetics, proteostasis, cell surface structures, metabolic pathways, and adaptation to high salt environments. Isolated from the Dead Sea in 1975, Haloferax volcanii thrives in high salt environments and has emerged as an important archaeal model system. An extensive repertoire of genetic, molecular biological, and biochemical tools has been developed for this fast-growing, easily cultivated haloarchaeon, including expression vectors and gene-deletion strategies, including CRISPR. Its low mutation rate and ability to grow on defined media allow straightforward application of methods such as metabolic labeling, and the sequenced genome laid the foundation for transcriptomics and proteomics studies. These tools have allowed examination of key pathways such as transcription, noncoding RNAs, protein synthesis and degradation, protein glycosylation, motility, and biofilm formation. With the collaborative spirit of the H. volcanii community, this model system has become invaluable not only for enhancing our understanding of archaea but also for improving the development of biotech applications.